The Unexpected Skincare Habit That Ruined
For years, the writer believed their laundry routine was flawless.
But when a “tiny orange spot” appeared on a gray towel and kept getting brighter despite multiple washes,
they knew something was off. More towels developed the same orange tint,
and even after checking the washer, dryer, and bathroom surfaces, there were still no answers.
After researching and talking to a skincare-savvy friend, the real cause became clear: the towels weren’t stained—they were being bleached.
Products containing benzoyl peroxide, a common acne treatment ingredient, can break down fabric dye, leaving “permanent orange patches.”
Heat from washing and drying only makes the discoloration stronger.
Because the dye is stripped, the damage can’t be undone.
Instead, the article suggests practical fixes:
use white towels, let skincare products fully absorb before drying off,
wash hands well after applying treatments, or keep specific “skincare towels” for daily routines.
